The Revolutionary Shadow Design Workbook by YURIKO: A Game Changer for Character Coloring Skills

Overview of the Shadow Design Workbook

Released on September 19, 2025, by Mynavi Publishing, the "YURIKO Shadow Design Workbook" has quickly gained traction, with a reprint confirmed within the first week. This workbook is praised for its effective techniques in enhancing character coloring skills, attracting feedback from those eager to improve their coloring abilities, including requests for specific guidance like "I want a book to overcome my struggles with coloring" and "I’m excited to try anime-style coloring!"

What is Shadow Design?

Shadow design involves marking the locations of shadows and highlights directly onto the line art with colored pens. Typically used in the animation and gaming industries, this process facilitates a smooth workflow between the line art artist and the coloring artist. The term 'shadow' in this book refers to both areas not hit by light ('shade') and areas blocked by an object resulting in darkness ('shadow').

No More Coloring Confusion

The methodology of specifying shadow locations before applying color is an ideal lesson for budding artists. By training to identify shadow placements in relationship to the light source, artists can color with confidence and precision. This workbook not only offers a detailed approach to mastering these techniques but encourages users to actively engage with line art and discover their unique style.

Assess Your Shadow Techniques with Examples

The workbook includes a combination of line art and completed examples for effective learning. After adding your shadows, refer to the sample completions to identify differences and gain feedback on your placements. Moreover, for those moments of uncertainty regarding shadow placement, a shadow reference table is included, detailing various patterns based on light source positions.

Advanced Techniques: Adding Shadows to Dynamic Poses

Once the basics of shadow design are grasped, you can dive into more complex applications by applying shadows to characters in varying poses, hairstyles, and outfits. Understanding how the same light source affects shadows differently according to characters’ stances adds depth to your illustrations.

The advanced section of the workbook provides nine pieces of line art, showcasing shadows based on three distinct light source settings: 1) from the upper left, 2) directly above, and 3) from behind right.

Author’s Insights

YURIKO was thrilled by the enthusiastic reception of her workbook. Through this effort, she aims to alleviate the shadow-placement challenges faced by many artists. YURIKO hopes that, through this workbook, individuals can enjoy their creative endeavors while enhancing their skills.

Exclusive Amazon Offer

Purchasing through Amazon grants access to two exclusive downloadable items: original line art and completed shadow design data! Flaunt your coloring on social media with the hashtag #YURIKO式影指定 after your purchase. For download request please reach out through the inquiry form at: Inquiry Form.

Please remember not to disclose the download URL or redistribute the images in any format. Uploads of the line art on social media are also prohibited.

- INTRODUCTION: Basics of Shadow Design and Light
- LESSON 1: Shadow Design with Light From Above
- LESSON 2: Forward Light Shadow Design
- LESSON 3: Shadow Design from Behind
- LESSON 4: Advanced Shadow Techniques & Coloring Making
- APPENDIX: Quick Reference for Shadows

About the Author

YURIKO, born in Roppongi, has pursued a career in art since childhood. After working for a game company, she became a freelance illustrator. Following serious illness, she pivoted to share her artistic journey on YouTube. Known for her thorough and approachable explanations, YURIKO continues to provide insights and tutorials for aspiring artists. Her other notable works include "Complete Mastery of the Official Guide to ibisPaint" and "Fun Characters Drawing for Beginners."